The song "What Shall We Do Now" by Pink Floyd from the album "The Wall" presents a compelling opportunity to explore its connection with the ideas found in our week's poetry. While the song is a relatively modern composition compared to the old poems we have studied, it still offers insights and themes that can challenge, reinforce, illustrate, or complicate the concepts explored in traditional poetry.
One way the song challenges the ideas found in our week's poetry is through its exploration of societal alienation and the search for identity. It delves into the struggles of an individual who feels disconnected and trapped within the confines of a metaphorical wall. This theme challenges the traditional notions of unity, community, and belonging that are often present in classical poetry. Instead, it offers a more cynical and introspective perspective on the human experience.
On the other hand, the song also reinforces certain ideas found in our week's poetry, particularly regarding the power of self-expression and the potential for art to serve as a form of catharsis. Through its poignant lyrics and intense musical composition, "What Shall We Do Now" captures the emotional turmoil and desires for liberation that resonate with the sentiments expressed in some traditional poems. It reinforces the notion that art can be a transformative force, giving voice to individual struggles and providing an avenue for personal and collective growth.
Furthermore, the song illustrates the evolving nature of poetry and its intersection with modern forms of artistic expression, such as music. It showcases how lyrics, melody, and instrumentation can work together to convey complex emotions and narratives, blurring the boundaries between poetry and song. This illustration highlights the dynamic and adaptive nature of poetry, as it continues to evolve and find new ways to connect with audiences in different eras.
At the same time, "What Shall We Do Now" complicates the ideas found in our week's poetry by introducing elements of social critique and political commentary. The song touches upon themes of authoritarianism, conformity, and the erosion of individual freedom. These elements may not be as prevalent in traditional poems from earlier periods, which often focused on personal introspection or romantic themes. The song's incorporation of these societal critiques adds a layer of complexity and offers a contemporary lens through which we can reexamine the themes and ideas explored in our week's poetry.
In conclusion, while "What Shall We Do Now" by Pink Floyd is a relatively modern song, it can still engage with and contribute to the ideas found in our week's poetry. It challenges and complicates traditional notions while reinforcing the power of self-expression and illustrating the evolving nature of poetry as it intersects with other art forms. By exploring the connections between this song and old poems, we gain a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted nature of poetic expression across different time periods and artistic mediums.
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